Thieves steal 220 'keyless entry' cars in South Yorkshire in two months

Thieves stole 220 'keyless entry’ cars in South Yorkshire in two months, a police chief has warned.
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Motorists are being urged to step up their security following the spate of thefts, with criminals said to be targeting newer cars which have keyless entry systems, making them more vulnerable to ‘relay attacks’ or ‘key cloning’.

In September and October alone, 220 were reported stolen.

Detective Chief Inspector Jamie Henderson, said: “To give you a snapshot of how many incidents we’re seeing, between the start of September and the end of October, 220 vehicles were stolen without keys.

Detective Chief Inspector Jamie HendersonDetective Chief Inspector Jamie Henderson
Detective Chief Inspector Jamie Henderson
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“It’s really important that you consider the security of your vehicle, especially if you have a car which has keyless entry. Whilst it’s great technology, we are seeing that it does sadly increase your risk of being targeted by thieves.

“Keyless car theft is exactly what it says on the tin; thieves manage to open, start and drive away in a car without needing the key. How do they do it? Well, they clone the signal from the cars remote key fob in a method known as a ‘relay attack’.

“This uses two transmitters which intercept then relay the signal from the key.

“The first transmitter intercepts the unique signal from the key, even through a house wall, and transmits it to the second unit held close to the car.“This sends the cloned signal to the car, fooling the security system into thinking the key is nearby and allowing it to be unlocked and started.”DCI Henderson has urged drivers to park in their garages if possible, to use wheel locks and to store their keys in ‘signal blocking’ pouches.

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DCI Henderson added: “Lots of us spend a lot of money on a new motor, my advice would be don’t be stingy when it comes to protecting it.“Invest in the most advanced technology such as signal blocking pouches, motion sensor cameras for your car or even a good old-fashioned wheel lock.“All of these methods help deter car thieves and leave your car safe.”

Anyone with information should call South Yorkshire Police on 101.